Skip to Main Content

Interprofessional Education (IPE) Day 2025 - Cases

Case 1

Patient
Mrs. Linda Ray, 72-year-old female

Clinical Scenario

You have just started your first job in the hospital and making rounds (any profession). You happen to run into an old friend from high school who works there as a patient transporter. He casually spoke with you in the hall about a terrible back pain from an old injury, complained that he was out of medication, and asked if you are able to prescribe medication. 

Ethical Dilemma

How do you balance respect for patient autonomy with your duty to prevent harm and promote recovery?

Discussion Questions

  1. What are the roles of the different providers (PA, PT, OT, DO) in understanding and addressing her refusal?
  2. When is it appropriate to override patient wishes, if ever?

Submit Your Team's Response